Checklist, what is it and why use it?

A project checklist template is a type of informational job aid used to reduce failure by compensating for potential limits of human memory and attention. It helps to ensure consistency and completeness in carrying out a task. A basic example is the “to do list.”

A more advanced checklist would be a schedule, which lays out tasks to be done according to time of day or other factors.

What do they look like?

Project checklist template are often presented as lists with small check-boxes down the left hand side of the page. A small tick or check-mark is drawn in the box after the item has been completed.

Other formats are also sometimes used. Aviation checklists generally consist of a system and an action divided by a dashed line, and lack a check-box as they are often read aloud and are usually intended to be reused.

Downside

Excessive dependence of project checklist template may hinder performance when dealing with a time-critical situation, for example a medical emergency or an in-flight emergency. Checklists should not be used as a replacement for common sense.

Intensive training including rote-learning of checklists can help integrate use of checklists with more adaptive and flexible problem solving techniques.

Why use templates:

Project Managers often have various templates on their PC or laptop. When they start a new project, they sift through them trying to find something relevant, consuming valuable time and energy – only to have to start again from scratch when nothing suitable turns up.

That’s where this Project Management Template bundle is invaluable. For every project you’re involved with, you can simply open a template from the kit and start filling it in.

It saves you time and effort, and because each template has been professionally laid out, you can generate higher quality documentation as a result. Buy and download the Project Management Bundle today.